Crockpot Cinnamon Applesauce Recipe
There’s something enchanting about the aroma of warm cinnamon and sweet apples wafting through your home. It transports you back to childhood moments spent baking in the kitchen with loved ones during crisp autumn afternoons. The Crockpot Cinnamon Applesauce Recipe is not just a dish; it’s a warm embrace, a heartfelt tradition that brings families together. As the spices meld with the apples, you can almost hear laughter and cherished memories filling the air. This homemade recipe is truly the quintessential comforting treat for any season, offering a cozy moment in your busy day.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Crockpot Cinnamon Applesauce Recipe stands out for several wonderful reasons:
- Effortless Preparation: Toss everything in the crockpot and let it do the work while you focus on other tasks.
- Wholesome Ingredients: Made with fresh apples and just a hint of sugar, it’s a healthy option that feels indulgent.
- Makes Your Home Smell Amazing: The scents of cinnamon and cooking apples create an inviting atmosphere that feels like home.
- Perfect for All Occasions: Whether for a festive dish during the holidays or a comforting snack on a weeknight, it’s always appropriate.
- Versatile Enjoyment: Enjoy it warm, chilled, or as a topping for various desserts and breakfasts.
Ingredients with Notes
- 6-8 medium apples (preferably a mix of Granny Smith and Fuji): The tartness of Granny Smith balances beautifully with the sweetness of Fuji.
- 1/4 cup sugar (optional): Adjust according to the sweetness of your apples; you can also use honey or maple syrup as alternatives.
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon: Feel free to experiment with nutmeg or allspice for something a little different.
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice: This adds brightness and prevents browning.
- 1/2 cup water: Just enough to create the perfect steam for cooking.
Prep and Cook Time
- Prep time: 15 minutes
- Cook time: 4-6 hours on low or 2-3 hours on high
- Total time: About 6 hours (while you enjoy the delightful aromas!)
The wait might feel long, but trust me, the resulting applesauce is worth it — it’s the slow, gentle cooking that brings out deep flavors and a comforting texture.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
- Prepare the Apples: Begin by peeling, coring, and slicing your apples. Feel free to enlist the help of little hands in your kitchen; it can be a fun bonding activity!
- Mix the Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the apple slices with sugar, cinnamon, lemon juice, and water. Make sure the apples are well-coated.
- Load Up the Crockpot: Transfer the mixture into your slow cooker. Spread it out evenly, taking a moment to admire the vibrant colors.
- Set It and Forget It: Cover the crockpot, set it to low, and let it do its magic for 4-6 hours, or opt for high for 2-3 hours. As it cooks, your kitchen will fill with an irresistible fragrance.
- Mash or Blend: Once the apples are soft and tender, you can mash them with a potato masher for a chunky sauce or use an immersion blender for a smoother texture.
- Taste and Adjust: Taste your applesauce. If you prefer a sweeter sauce, add more sugar or cinnamon as desired, mixing in well.
- Cool and Store: Allow the applesauce to cool before transferring it to jars or containers for storage.
Tips and Variations
- Healthy Swaps: Substitute sugar with natural sweeteners like stevia or agave syrup for a healthier option.
- Flavor Twists: Add in cranberries or pear for a seasonal twist, especially around the holidays.
- Spice It Up: Have fun experimenting with spices! A dash of vanilla extract or a few cloves can elevate your applesauce to a whole new level.
Serving Ideas
Enjoy your Crockpot Cinnamon Applesauce Recipe warm straight from the pot, dolloped onto pancakes, stirred into yogurt, or even topped on oatmeal for a cozy breakfast. If you’re serving it at family gatherings, offer it as a festive addition to a charcuterie board or pair it with roasted meats for a delightful contrast. It’s the perfect balance needed to round out your comforting dinner or holiday feast.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftover applesauce in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. If you want to save some for later, consider freezing it in individual portions. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat gently on the stove or microwave, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
Chef’s Pro Tips
- Use Fresh Apples: Choose a variety of apples for the best flavor; a mix of tart and sweet makes for the most delightful applesauce.
- Don’t Skip the Lemon Juice: It adds brightness and keeps the apples from browning too quickly.
- Taste as You Go: Everyone’s sweetness preference is different — it’s important to adjust to your liking!
- Experiment with Texture: Decide whether you want it chunky or smooth — the beauty of homemade applesauce is you can customize it to perfection.
- Cleanup Tip: Line your crockpot with a slow-cooker liner for easy cleanup after enjoying this beautiful dish.
FAQs
- Can I use pre-made apple slices? Yes, but it is generally best to use fresh apples for the best flavor and texture.
- Is it necessary to peel the apples? Not necessarily; leaving the peels on can add fiber and a bit of color, though it will change the texture.
- How can I spice it differently? Try adding ginger or cardamom for unique layers of flavor.
- Can I double the recipe? Absolutely! Just ensure your crockpot is large enough to accommodate the extra apples.
Conclusion
As the crockpot works its magic, take a moment to breathe in the sweet, comforting aromas filling your kitchen. This Crockpot Cinnamon Applesauce Recipe is more than just a way to enjoy delicious apples; it’s an invitation to create cherished memories at the family table. So gather your loved ones, indulge in this warm treat, and let it be a source of joy that brings everyone together. Share this recipe widely and enjoy the happiness it brings to your life!
Contents
Crockpot Cinnamon Applesauce
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 6-8 medium medium apples (preferably a mix of Granny Smith and Fuji) The tartness of Granny Smith balances beautifully with the sweetness of Fuji.
- 1/4 cup sugar (optional) Adjust according to the sweetness of your apples; you can also use honey or maple syrup as alternatives.
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon Feel free to experiment with nutmeg or allspice for something a little different.
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice This adds brightness and prevents browning.
- 1/2 cup water Just enough to create the perfect steam for cooking.
Instructions
Preparation
- Begin by peeling, coring, and slicing your apples.
- In a large bowl, combine the apple slices with sugar, cinnamon, lemon juice, and water. Make sure the apples are well-coated.
Cooking
- Transfer the mixture into your slow cooker. Spread it out evenly.
- Cover the crockpot, set it to low, and let it cook for 4-6 hours, or opt for high for 2-3 hours.
- Once the apples are soft, mash them with a potato masher for a chunky sauce or use an immersion blender for a smoother texture.
- Taste your applesauce. If you prefer a sweeter sauce, add more sugar or cinnamon as desired, mixing in well.
- Allow the applesauce to cool before transferring it to jars or containers for storage.
Notes
Written by Salaheddine — founder of Tasty Sunrise, sharing easy and comforting homemade recipes for every occasion.